SCHOOL SHOOTINGS ARE EVERYBODY'S PROBLEM

Society has been overwhelmed by a series of school shootings in recent months. Violence has that effect. People are outraged. But the outrage too easily dissolves into helplessness. There are no easy answers to questions like "How can we make sure it won't happen again?" or "Who is to blame?"

The recent school shooting in Michigan again managed to shock the nation. A 6-year-old boy shot and killed another first-grader in their elementary-school classroom.

There are reports that the two had a fight the day before. The boy has said he brought a gun to school to scare classmates. Instead, the unthinkable happened.

Charges probably won't be filed against the boy, who authorities say is too young to understand what happened. These are 6-year-olds after all. They still believe in Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. They ought be able to believe school is safe.

Schools are stepping up security measures. But there's a problem. The shooters aren't outsiders rushing in with guns. The shooters are students, and that makes security much more challenging.

People who allow children access to loaded guns should be dealt with harshly and swiftly. A 19-year-old man living at the house where the Michigan boy had been staying has been charged with involuntary manslaughter. People must act responsibly with their weapons. Youngsters simply should not have access to a loaded gun without adult supervision.

It is also interesting to see the town of Mount Morris Township, Mich., has extended its compassion for the boy who did the shooting. The boy lived in what has been described as a crack house where strangers came and went, where guns were traded for drugs. He didn't have a bed to sleep in. His father was in jail.

This young boy's situation may send a message to others who see this sad story repeated across America. And even though there are no easy answers, society can act in several ways. The justice system can deal with people who allow access of their guns to children. This can send a powerful message to irresponsible gun owners.

In addition, everyone can help authorities watch for dangerous family situations. Early intervention can be the best prevention.

Finally, everyone can look for ways to help prevent a repeat performance of this most recent tragedy. This is not just a problem for Mount Morris Township. It is a burden all Americans share.